Maintaining the Beauty and Functionality of Your Wood Garage Door

Wood garage doors add a touch of timeless elegance to your Colorado home. But unlike their steel counterparts, wood requires a bit more TLC to maintain its beauty and functionality. The good news is that with a little seasonal maintenance and preventative care, your wood garage door can last for decades.

Preserving the Wood: Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Colorado Homeowners

Colorado’s distinct seasons present unique challenges for wood garage doors. Here are some seasonal maintenance tips to keep your door looking its best:

• 

  Spring Cleaning: After the harsh winter, thoroughly clean your door. Use a soft brush and a solution of mild dish soap and warm water to remove dirt, grime, and any salt residue left behind from winter road treatments. Avoid using harsh chemicals or power washers, as they can damage the wood’s finish.

• Summer Sun Protection: The intense Colorado sun can fade and crack the paint or stain on your garage door. To prevent damage, apply a fresh coat of high-quality exterior-grade paint or stain every 2-3 years. Choose a product specifically formulated for your wood garage door and with UV protection.

• Fall Foliage Fallout: As autumn leaves fall, they can accumulate on top of your garage door, trapping moisture and potentially leading to rot. Regularly remove leaves with a soft broom to prevent moisture build-up.

• Winter Weather Woes: During Colorado’s snowy season, keep an eye on the tracks and rollers of your garage door opener. Ice and snow build-up can hinder smooth operation. Use a broom to clear away snow before operating the door, and consider applying a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks to prevent sticking.

Preventative Maintenance: Extending the Lifespan of Your Wood Garage Door

Beyond seasonal upkeep, some preventative measures can significantly extend the lifespan of your wood garage door:

• Regular Inspections: Inspect your door for any signs of damage like cracks, warping, peeling paint, or rust on the hardware. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.

• Hardware Maintenance: Lubricate the hinges, rollers, and springs of your garage door opener at least once a year. This ensures smooth operation and helps prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

• Weatherproofing: Check the weatherstripping around the door frame for any signs of wear or damage. Replace worn-out weatherstripping to maintain a tight seal and prevent drafts, moisture infiltration, and heat loss.

Investing in the maintenance of your wood garage door pays off in the long run. With a little effort and some preventative care, you can ensure your door continues to add beauty, value, and functionality to your Colorado home for years to come. Thinking about repairs or a new wood garage door installation? Contact Colorado Overhead Door Company today, and we can help you choose the right door and materials for your needs and ensure a smooth and professional installation.